Sri Lanka and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) speedster Matheesha Pathirana's father has disclosed his heartwarming chat with MS Dhoni with regards to playing in the IPL. With Pathirana coming in as a rookie bowler in the IPL, the youngster's father revealed how Dhoni assured of being there for him in every step of the way.
Pathirana had appeared for the auction ahead of the 2022 edition but didn't attract any bid. However, the right-arm speedster was bought in as an injury replacement by the Super Kings and soon came to be known as 'Baby Malinga' due to his slinging arm action. Nevertheless, the Sri Lankan cricketer played a significant role in the Yellow Amry's title win in 2023, picking up 19 scalps in 12 games at 19.52.
The 22-year-old was retained by the Super Kings ahead of IPL 2025 for ₹13 crore.
Speaking in a video uploaded by CSK on social media, Pathirana's father revealed:
"Don't be afraid. I will see. I am with him. He told me 'don't be worried about your son, I will keep him'.
In turn, Pathirana said he considers Dhoni as his cricketing father.
"MS Dhoni is like my father because of the support, mentorship and the guidance he gave me in CSK. So, it's very similar to what my father did in my home. That's why I consider Dhoni as my cricketing father."
Chennai Super Kings under considerable pressure ahead of their third game
Meanwhile, the Super Kings began their IPL 2025 campaign with a victory over the Mumbai Indians but lost to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and the Rajasthan Royals. Dhoni, who was retained as an uncapped player ahead of the season, has come under scrutiny for his entry points in the final two matches.
The Super Kings will face the Delhi Capitals on April 5, Saturday at home.
